Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ANTIHEMOPHILIC FACTOR, RECOMBINANT - INJECTION

(AN-tee-he-mow-FILL-ick factor, ree-KOM-bin-unt)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Bioclate, Helixate, Kogenate, Recombinate

Uses

Antihemophilic factor is a protein in the blood necessary in forming clots to stop bleeding. Persons with hemophilia A have low levels of this protein leaving them susceptible to bleeding episodes. This medication is used to temporarily prevent or control bleeding episodes in patients with hemophilia A.

How To Use

This medication is given by injection into a vein. The rate of injection depends upon patient response but is generally injected over 5 to 10 minutes. The powder and dissolving fluid should be warmed to room temperature before combining if they were refrigerated. After adding the dissolving fluid, swirl the vial gently to completely dissolve the powder. Do not use the mixed solution if you find any floating particles in it or it discolors. The drug should then be started within 1 to 3 hours depending on the product. It may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. The dose and frequency of use of this medication will be determined by your condition, weight and situation. Follow your doctor's instructions closely and be sure to ask any questions you may have about this therapy.

Side Effects

This medication is generally well tolerated. Mild chills, nausea and irritation at the injection site may occur. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other illnesses, allergies (especially to animal proteins). You should check your heart rate before and during injection. The dose or rate of infusion may need to be changed if your heart rate is too fast. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medications you may use. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Blood tests will be done frequently to determine dosing and evaluate the effectiveness of this medication.

Missed Dose

It is important that each dose be used as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store the medication according to manufacturer's instructions. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard any unused medication after that time.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).